What RFNBO certification covers
RFNBO certification verifies whether hydrogen and e-fuels meet EU sustainability and greenhouse-gas criteria. Voluntary schemes recognised for this purpose include CertifHy EU, ISCC EU and REDcert EU. Developers typically provide evidence on electricity sourcing, additionality and temporal/geographical correlation, alongside metering and chain-of-custody controls.
Why it matters for market growth
Certification enables producers and off-takers to demonstrate compliance for transport, industry and power applications, supporting access to EU markets and financing. Early audits can de-risk projects by testing documentation and operating procedures ahead of final investment decisions and ramp-up.
Guidance highlighted by TÜV SÜD
- Power sourcing & PPAs: Projects should align electricity supply with scheme rules on additional renewable generation and matching windows.
- Metering & data: High-quality metering, clear allocation rules and auditable records reduce certification uncertainty.
- Timeline: Pre-assessments and staged audits can shorten overall certification lead times once plants move from commissioning to steady operation.
Policy backdrop
EU hydrogen sustainability requirements are being implemented under the Renewable Energy Directive framework. Developers are aligning with the latest rules and national transpositions as supply chains form across Europe and partner countries.
